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iTunes Festival 2012: Elbow Put A Rocket Up The Roundhouse!

Imagine a gig so crap you can’t even remember it. Now imagine the complete opposite of that and you have something very similar to the musical masterpiece displayed by alternative indie rockers Elbow at this month’s star-studded iTunes Festival.

The impressive five-piece, who were responsible for the BBC London 2012 theme tune and subsequently stole the show at the closing ceremony, wowed upbeat onlookers at Camden’s intimate Roundhouse venue with an array of typically anthemic numbers spanning the past decade.

Really, a decade? We hear you ask. Yes, and then some. In fact, they’ve been scrapping in musical wilderness for so every concert they perform is treated like it could be their last.

Backed by the customary mini-orchestra, cuddly frontman Guy Garvey – while appearing seemingly disappointed that the crowd weren’t as visibly enthused by some of the lesser-known hits – ensured audience participation was a central theme for the night. And not just for the lucky few in North London: “Good evening Camden, and to all those watching at home in their underwear.”

Much of the set revolved around Mercury Prize winning album The Seldom Seen Kid, interspersed with randomly unorthodox group ensembles around a favoured instrument. Pianist Craig Potter caressed the ivory, which lightened the mood as Garvey prompted fans to sing “Happy Birthday” to fellow band member Pete Turner.

Naturally, the encore produced an extended version of old favourite One Day Like This, bringing the entire crowd together. The track, which ultimately won them the Best British Group at the 2009 Brit Awards, reverberated through the Roundhouse and even prompted some sections to harmonise along with Harvey.

So, go on then: “Throw those curtains wide…”

There's still a chance to enter and win tickets to the iTunes Festival 2012, including Muse, Hot Chip and Biffy Clyro! Head to this way to enter.